Understanding how
to create a template to make 1 inch buttons can be a little confusing
at first because there are several measurements to consider when
creating designs for your 1-inch buttons. But it's really not
that hard to create a template with most graphics programs.

As I'm sure you
know, the face of a one inch button is 1 inch in diameter. And
just as you don't normally type from edge to edge on a sheet
of paper (you use a margin to make your text easier to read),
it's best to do the same when making buttons. Except in the design
world the margin is referred to as "image area".

For 1 inch buttons
the "image area" should be approximately .9".
If you wish, you can make it a little larger or a little smaller,
but .9" is a good place to begin.

The next measurement is for "background color". If
your button will have a background color, this measurement tells
you how far that color needs to extend so the edge of your button
doesn't show white (if you're printing on white paper).

Extending your background color only as far as the "background
color" measurement can help in two other ways, as well.

If you're using an ink-jet printer, doing so will save you money
since you won't be printing ink where it doesn't need to be.

And second, if you're using a laser printer or color copying
your button designs, doing so can help you avoid bubbling at
the edge of your buttons. (On some laser printers the toner is
so slick that button machines are unable to get a firm grasp
of both the button design and the mylar disc, and it can slip
when the machine is attempting to tuck them up under the front
of the button. Because of this, bubbling at the edge can occur.
By taking the background color only out as far as the background
color measurement, the button machine then has an area free of
toner that it can grasp)

The third measurement
is the "cut line". Creating a cutline (a circle into
which your actual button design is centered) will make cutting
your designs easier and help you achieve more accurate cuts.
If done properly, the cutline will be visible just inside your
the "throat" of your cutter, to aid in centering the
design.

I hope this hasn't
confused you too much. It's actually easy to understand when
you have the cutter in hand and have made a button or two.

If you have any
questions about making one inch buttons, feel free to give us
a call.

Or if you'd like to place an order online,
you can use ourSECURE
ONLINE ORDER PAGE by clicking
here.

or if you have
questions about button-making, button machines,
or if you'd like to place an order by phone,
give us a call toll-free at:

(800)
243-8293

or

(623)
869-8233

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